Gain the gift of knowledge at the best public libraries in Dubai
- Mohammed bin Rashid Library
- History of Public Libraries
- Public Libraries in Dubai
- Beach Libraries in Dubai
- FAQs
Even in the digital age and the era of e-books, there is something truly special about reading an actual physical book. Bibliophiles will be glad to know that the best public libraries in Dubai are up there with the world’s finest. In this article, we reveal where you can head to pick up your next page-turner!
MOHAMMED BIN RASHID LIBRARY
The Mohammed bin Rashid Library opened to the public in June 2022 and is considered a must-visit. Launched in 2016 by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, it is a cultural landmark that is visited by bookworms, researchers and everyone who has an interest in learning new things. It features Islamic architecture and brings “the Rehal” (the foldable wooden book used by Muslims to read the Holy Quran) to life.
The library is an innovative feat. It uses solar panels for 10% of its energy needs and features an external facade that regulates the environment and insulates the interiors. The Mohammed bin Rashid Library has millions of books that are spread over seven floors. Bibliophiles will be delighted to know that there are nine special sections that are dedicated to Emiratis, young adults, children, the business community and more! There is even a library cafe where you can get your caffeine fix. Other attractions include an amphitheatre and a languages garden.
- Location: Al Jaddaf
- Timings: Monday to Saturday 09:00 am to 09:00 pm
HISTORY OF PUBLIC LIBRARIES IN DUBAI
The story behind public libraries dates back to the vision of His Highness late Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the Ruler of Dubai from 1958 to 1990. He wanted to transform Dubai into a place of knowledge and culture where young minds can learn and prosper. Read on to find out more about public libraries in Dubai.
PUBLIC LIBRARIES IN DUBAI
The Dubai Public Library Network comprises eight libraries in different districts for adults and seven other libraries for children. All Dubai Public Library branches are linked with other modern libraries, providing readers access to vast information resources on diverse topics in both Arabic and English.
The Dubai Public Library services include guidance counselling, reference services and borrowing service. Besides recent publications, you can find newspapers, magazines and other data resources at these libraries. The network consists of the following libraries.
AL RAS PUBLIC LIBRARY
The first free Al Ras Public Library in Dubai was established in 1963, overlooking Dubai Creek. This building has been temporarily closed down for renovation purposes.
- Location: D-85, Deira, Al Ras
DUBAI PUBLIC LIBRARY UMM SUQEIM
Dubai Public Library in Umm Suqeim offers plenty of reading materials and books on various topics. It’s an excellent place to enjoy reading or studying in a peaceful environment.
Inaugurated in 1989, the Umm Suqeim branch, like other public library branches, has a separate children’s section with a reading hall, activity room and AV facilities. The library even lets book lovers suggest their favourite titles through their dedicated app and website.
- Location: Umm Suqeim
- Timings: Saturday to Thursday 10:00 am to 05:00 pm
DUBAI PUBLIC LIBRARY AL MANKHOOL
Dubai Public Library in Al Mankhool is a centre for learning, knowledge and culture in Dubai. The library is home to hundreds of books, periodicals, journals and other materials. Comprising two floors, it features a spacious design and even has books available in Hindi, Chinese and French.
- Location: Al Mankhool
- Timings: Sunday to Thursday 08:00 am to 08:00 pm | Friday 08:00 am to 12:00 pm | Closed on Saturday
DUBAI PUBLIC LIBRARY AL RASHIDIYA
Al Rashidiya Public Library caters to those living in Al Rashidiya and adjoining districts. It’s a good spot to read books on various topics including literature, religion and history. Audio-visual aids can also be provided. Besides, you can expect to find books by international best-sellers. Hence, it is worth the visit.
- Location: 44th Street Al Rashidiya
- Timings: Monday to Thursday 08:00 am to 05:00 pm | Friday 09:00 am to 12:00 pm | Closed on Saturday and Sunday
AL SAFA ART AND DESIGN LIBRARY
The Al Safa Art and Design Library is for art and design buffs. This is where you can learn more about the history and evolution of arts and design. The books and reading materials offer an insight into the impact of arts in the world. It is an integrated centre for culture and knowledge in Dubai. In fact, it was renovated in 2018 and is considered a creative oasis.
- Location: Al Wasl Road
- Timings: Sunday to Thursday 08:00 am to 08:00 pm | Friday 08:00 am to 12:00 pm | closed on Saturday
AL TWAR LIBRARY
Al Twar Library is part of the Dubai Public Libraries established to promote reading and research. It is a good option for those who wish to study for a school or university project. The library even has an activity room where kids can try out fun activities. All readers are spoilt for choice.
- Location: Al Twar Area 1
- Timings: Sunday to Thursday 08:00 am to 08:00 pm | Friday 08:00 am to 12:00 pm | Closed on Saturday
HOR AL ANZ LIBRARY
The Hor Al Anz Library in Deira Dubai is a knowledge centre with countless books and periodicals on various genres. You can enjoy reading your favourite books in a cosy environment.
- Location: 16th Street, Deira
- Timings: Sunday to Thursday 08:00 am to 08:00 pm | Friday 08:00 am to 12:00 pm | Closed on Saturday
HATTA LIBRARY
Home to over 74,030 titles, the Hatta Library is specifically designed to cater to people living on the outskirts of Dubai. It has several amenities, including a multi-purpose hall and bus service for people who want to visit the library.
- Location: Dubai – Hatta Road
- Timings: Sunday to Thursday 08:00 am to 08:00 pm | Friday 08:00 am to 12:00 pm | Closed on Saturday
BEACH LIBRARIES IN DUBAI
The Dubai Municipality has also launched the “Beach Library” project to encourage reading. These self-service libraries are set up on different beaches in Dubai.
Each library features a small comfortable, and relaxing reading area. Anyone can borrow a book for reading. The solar-powered beach library kiosks are well-lit for those who love to read a book after the sun goes down. The first beach library opened in Umm Suqeim.
FAQS
HOW CAN I GET A DUBAI PUBLIC LIBRARY MEMBERSHIP?
Becoming a member of any of the Dubai Public Libraries is simple. All you need is:
- A recent photograph
- Copy of your passport
- Copy of the Emirates ID or any other document to prove the GCC/UAE citizenship
Visit any of the public libraries in the city to apply for a membership card. You can also apply via the Dubai Public Libraries App or Dubai Culture and Arts Authority’s libraries page.
Beach Libraries in Dubai do not require any membership. Parents need to submit their Emirates ID when applying for memberships for kids.
WHAT ARE THE MEMBERSHIP RATES OF THE DUBAI PUBLIC LIBRARY?
Here are the charges for the different memberships at Dubai Public Libraries:
- Adults: AED 50
- Family: AED 50
Membership for kids is free of charge.
Please note that an insurance amount will also need to be paid. To learn more, you can visit the official website of Dubai Culture.
CAN I BORROW BOOKS FROM THE PUBLIC LIBRARY?
Yes, all members can borrow books for 28 days. Those with Golden Memberships, however, can borrow their favourite publications for 35 days.
Kids can borrow 10 books at a time, while adults can borrow 15 titles for 28 days. Family Membership holders can borrow 25 books at a time for 28 days.
This concludes our list of the best best public libraries in Dubai. These public sector libraries are well-equipped with plenty of reading materials and books. And each venue has a kids section featuring children’s books, encyclopaedias and more.
There are also cafe libraries in Dubai where you can grab a cup of coffee with snacks of your choice and enjoy reading your favourite book. You can also consider visiting libraries and second-hand bookstores in Dubai.
Based in Abu Dhabi? Take your kids to the Abu Dhabi Children’s Library! To create your little book haven, you should consider the best tips for creating a home library.
